Getting into a car accident is overwhelming. Between the shock of the crash, potential injuries, vehicle damage, and calls from the insurance company, it’s easy to feel like everything’s happening at once. And in the midst of all that chaos, one simple mistake can seriously impact your recovery, physically, financially, and legally.
At the Law Offices of Cohen and Riechelson, we’ve helped countless individuals and families across Northeast Philadelphia and Lower Bucks County navigate life after a collision. Whether your accident happened on Roosevelt Boulevard in Philly, along Street Road in Bensalem, or on Route 1 through Langhorne or Levittown, knowing what to do – and what to avoid – in those first few hours and days can make all the difference.
Here are seven common mistakes to steer clear of after a car accident and what you can do instead to protect yourself, your health, and your legal rights:
It’s understandable to want to get home as soon as possible after a crash, especially if you feel okay in the moment. But leaving the scene too soon can be a mistake. Be sure to:
Even if you think the damage is minor, having an official accident report on record can be important later – especially if injuries become apparent after the fact.
Many people don’t feel pain immediately after a crash. Adrenaline can mask symptoms of serious injuries like concussions, internal bleeding, or whiplash. If you delay seeing a doctor, the insurance company might argue that you weren’t actually hurt – or that your injuries aren’t related to the crash.
Getting checked out early creates a medical record that links your injuries to the accident and supports your claim. When in doubt, get evaluated.
It’s natural to feel shaken or confused after a collision, but be careful what you say. Even saying something like “I didn’t see you” or “I’m sorry” can be taken out of context and used against you by the other driver’s insurer.
Stick to the facts when speaking to police or the other party. Let the investigation determine fault. Avoid speculating or making assumptions in the moment.
Soon after the accident, you may get a call from the insurance adjuster asking for a recorded statement. It may seem like a routine request, but it’s not always in your best interest.
What you say in those conversations can be used to reduce or deny your claim. You have the right to speak with a lawyer first – and doing so can help you avoid unintentionally hurting your case.
If you’re unsure how to handle conversations with the insurance company, the Law Offices of Cohen and Riechelson can help you navigate the process with clarity and confidence. Our legal team understands how these companies operate – and how to protect your interests from the start.
It might feel harmless to post a quick update or photo about the crash, especially if friends and family are concerned. But anything you share online could be used by insurance companies to dispute the severity of your injuries or question your version of events.
Even a picture of you out with friends or a comment about “feeling fine” can be taken out of context. It’s best to stay off social media while your claim is pending.
Some people wait weeks or months before contacting a lawyer, thinking they can handle things on their own. But valuable evidence (like surveillance footage or witness statements) can disappear quickly. And every day that passes gives the insurance company more time to control the narrative.
In Pennsylvania, you typically have two years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury lawsuit. But waiting too long to act can still make it harder to build a strong claim.
Even if you’re not sure you need a lawyer, speaking to one early on can help you avoid costly mistakes – and often, that first conversation is free.
Insurance companies are businesses. Their goal is to settle claims quickly and for as little money as possible. That first offer might sound tempting – especially if you’re missing work or dealing with medical bills – but it’s rarely enough to cover the full scope of your damages.
Once you accept a settlement, you typically give up the right to seek additional compensation later, even if your injuries worsen or new costs arise.
Before signing anything, talk to someone who can review the offer and help you understand what your claim is really worth.
If you’ve been injured in a crash in Northeast Philadelphia, Lower Bucks County, or anywhere in Eastern Pennsylvania, what you do next can shape the outcome of your claim. At the Law Offices of Cohen and Riechelson, we’re committed to helping individuals and families understand their rights, respond confidently to insurance companies, and take meaningful steps toward recovery.
Our Philadelphia office serves clients throughout the region, including communities like Mayfair, Tacony, Rhawnhurst, Bensalem, Langhorne, Levittown, and beyond. Whether you’re dealing with mounting medical bills, missed time from work, or pressure to accept a quick settlement, our legal team is ready to step in and support you.
You don’t have to go through this alone. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation. We’ll listen to your concerns, answer your questions clearly, and help you move forward with trusted guidance and a plan that puts your best interests first.
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every accident case is different. To understand your legal rights and options, consult an attorney licensed in your state.
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